The three marks on hallmarked gold
- BIS standard mark — a triangle logo of the Bureau of Indian Standards.
- Purity grade — carat and fineness, for example 22K916 (91.6% gold).
- HUID — a 6-character alphanumeric Hallmark Unique Identification code, different for every piece.
Since 1 April 2023, hallmarked gold jewellery and artefacts sold in India must carry the 6-digit HUID. Older 4-mark hallmarks (with the assaying centre’s logo and year letter) were not allowed for new sales after that date, though jewellery bought earlier remains valid.
How to verify a HUID
- Install the official BIS CARE app (Android/iOS).
- Choose Verify HUID and type the 6 characters.
- The app shows the jeweller’s registration, the article type, purity and the hallmarking centre. Check these match your bill and the piece.
The HUID code is printed very small — use a magnifier or your phone camera’s zoom. If the app shows a different jeweller or article type, ask the seller to explain before paying.
Purity grades allowed
BIS hallmarking covers 14K (585), 18K (750), 20K (833), 22K (916), 23K (958) and 24K (995/999) gold. Anything stamped with another number is not a valid BIS grade.
Questions people ask
Is “916” the same as hallmarked?
No. 916 only states a purity. A BIS hallmark also needs the BIS logo and a valid HUID that can be verified in the BIS CARE app.
My old jewellery has no HUID. Can I still sell it?
Yes. Consumers can sell or exchange old unhallmarked or 4-mark jewellery. Jewellers may test purity before buying.
Can I get old jewellery hallmarked now?
Consumers can have jewellery tested for purity at BIS-recognised assaying and hallmarking centres for a fee.
Sources
This page checks the format only. Only the BIS CARE app can confirm that a HUID is genuine. Last reviewed: November 2026.